Although throwing a party can be intimidating, don't let it be. "Parties should just be fun," says Jeff Hyatt, executive chef of The White Apron Catering, in Lake Worth. "You should enjoy them at least as much as your guests do." This catering company, owned by Charlie Crawford, has been throwing parties for Palm Beachers since 1990. So whether it's a Christmas event or a New Year's Eve bash, we thought the chef and owner would be the perfect duo to help you with your holiday plans.

Nine Dragons. Michael Connelly. Little, Brown. $27.99. 384 pp. Ever since Michael Connelly first sent his LAPD detective Harry Bosch down the tunnels in Black Echo, the author has made sure his character has been in constant flux. The Harry at the beginning of Connelly's 1990 Edgar-winning debut was not the same Harry at the end of Black Echo. And it has been that way throughout Connelly's series. The only constant has been that Harry has not had to worry how his actions, his mission of seeking justice and his insular personality would affect anyone else.

A wave of patriotism seems to be washing over America's car-buying public, according to a recent study, even if last month's industry sales results tell a different story. In a Consumer Reports survey of almost 1,800 adults, 81 percent of those in the market for a new car said they were likely to consider a domestic brand. That compares with 47 percent looking at Asian brands and 46 percent in the market for European models. Ford Motor Co. looks to be the biggest beneficiary from the increasing interest in U.S. vehicles.

There's a second pasta section in your supermarket. Instead of the familiar packages of spaghetti, penne and macaroni, check the Asian food department for noodles that may be new to you. You'll find noodles made with rice, buckwheat or corn flour as well as egg-enriched wheat noodles. These aren't mere place holders for meat. The flavors and textures contribute to your enjoyment of the meal. If you're not familiar with Asian noodles, here are some of the types you're likely to find in your favorite store: Cellophane noodles: delicate and translucent, with a subtle taste and appealing chewy texture.